Genomics is a branch of genetics that focuses on the study of the genomes of organisms. We focus on studying the structure, function, evolution and mapping of genomes.

Genetics and Molecular Biology focus on single genes, while Genomics analyzes the entire genome. This means all mitochondrial and nuclear DNA is analyzed, instead of a single, smaller sequence.

Genomics is the Future

Several indications lead to Genomics and related bioinformatics being among the fastest job growth areas. Experts expect Genomics to increase at an astounding compound annual growth rate of 26.9% through 2015 and beyond, and the related Bioinformatics segment to increase at a rate of 19.3% (for comparison, general science and technology areas have been growing at about 7.9% during the recession, while many non-science and technology fields have been contracting). [source]

New DNA sequencing technologies are continuing to emerge that are radically changing the structure of medicine and biotechnology and opening up exciting new applications. Contributing to the rise of these new sequencing technologies are advances in Nanotechnology, Microfluidics, Imaging, Enzymology and Bioinformatics. DNA sequencing is a strategic Genomics tool that allows us to study how the genome varies among individuals and how that variation correlates to disease. DNA sequencing technologies are a critical part of today’s life-science industry, affecting a wide range of medical and other commercial activities from drug discovery to diagnostics, revolutionizing anything that has to do with biology from A to Z (Agriculture to Zoology). The sequencing industry is undergoing major shifts in technology, applications, and markets that will change how Genomics is done in the future.

We provide needed skill sets for students to succeed in the biotech industry of the present and future. Merritt’s program equips graduates with on the job training to ensure that they are the best qualified candidates in a well-paying job market. We partner with real industry leaders and train according to their needs, ensuring that the biotechnology component of the Bay Area economy continues to grow.

Our program is currently housed in a new state-of-the-art facility at 860 Atlantic Avenue in Alameda, California. This facility serves students by giving them access to the various modern devices used by the Genomics industry providing them with a means for practical experience as well as their own personal research. We have an advisory board from industry, government, and academia to ensure that our training remains relevant..

Current Certifications Programs

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UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

UPDATE WITH BLERB ABOUT CURRENT CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

Nanochip Certification of Achievement

NanoChip DNA sequencers present an emerging technology that is compact, hooking up to a laptop computer and generating long DNA reads in very large throughput. Currently, we are the only community college teaching this method of DNA sequencing, as all others are genome institutes, biotech companies and advanced university research laboratories. This technology is poised to become staple instrumentation in every biological and health field. A Certificate of Proficiency will be awarded upon completion of the requirements below. The Certificate of Proficiency is not indicated on the student's transcript.

Career Opportunities

Lab technician; may also lead to a bachelor's degree. This certificate lends itself to performing original research and potentially publishing scientific papers. It is also being used as a bridge program for high schools.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Perform good laboratory practices in a genomics lab

2. Demonstrate basic laboratory skills for genomics

3. Demonstrate mastery of nanopore sequencing

Degree Requirements:

Required Courses:

Credit Hours: (12 Required)

BIOSC 030 and Genomics Theory 4

BIOSC 031 and Advanced Genomics Theory 4

BIOSC 037 and Principles of Long Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) 1

BIOSC 060 Personalized (Desk-top) Sequencing 3

Data Analysis and Scientific Presentation

It is not enough to just sequence DNA. You need to start analyzing what you have. With billions of DNA bases in a human genome, scientists and technicians rely on computers to help analyze and understand the data they sequence. Skills in the presentation of research in both text and oral formats are essential to success in both industry and academic settings. This certification prepares students to analyze and discuss their findings in writing, and to excel when organizing the products of their research. A Certificate of Proficiency will be awarded upon completion of the requirements below. The Certificate of Proficiency is not indicated on the students' transcript.

Career Opportunities

Lab technician in genomics and related areas. Most prestigious internships require original scientific inquiry; graduate schools as well as major universities look favorably upon applicants who have achieved this.